Drug Dealer’s Shoes Donated to Clothing Bank

A shooting investigation that led to a drug dealing conviction has resulted in the forfeiture of a stash of designer footwear.

In October of 2011 the Evansville Police Department responded to the Fairmont Apartments on Tippecanoe Drive upon report of a shooting. Ms. Angela R. Funches had been shot in the arm after struggling with an unknown attacker near the doorway of her apartment.

During the course of the investigation narcotics were observed inside the residence. Detectives from the Sheriff’s Office and Police Department attached to the Drug Task Force were called to assist. The apartment was searched and $4,175.00 in US Currency, approximately ¼ lb of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and 79 pairs of new designer shoes were recovered.

After Ms. Funches pled guilty to dealing marijuana in May of 2013, forfeiture proceedings were initiated. This process recently resulted in the currency and shoes being awarded to the state. The 79 pairs of shoes will be donated to the Evansville-Vanderburgh County School Corporation’sPTA clothing bank. The PTA clothing bank provides students in need with essential clothing items at no cost.

Sheriff Dave Wedding stated, “With cold weather on the way, the finalization of this forfeiture comes at an ideal time. As a result, 79 students will have a decent pair of shoes to get them through the winter.” Sheriff Wedding added, “This outcome also sends a clear message to drug dealers that when you are caught, you will lose your ill-gotten gains.”

This forfeiture was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Evansville-Vanderburgh County Drug Task Force, Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office, Evansville Police Department, Vanderburgh County Prosecutor’s Office, and the law firm of Kahn, Dees, Donovan, and Kahn.

Pictured above: 79 pairs of designer shoes ready for delivery to the PTA clothing bank.

Pictured above: A unique pair of of Nike’s complete with carrying case.